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Does Zoloft affect breast milk?

Understanding Zoloft and Its Impact on Breast Milk
Zoloft, known generically as sertraline, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed for depression and anxiety disorders. For nursing mothers, a critical concern is whether this medication affects breast milk and, consequently, the health of their infants.
Transfer of Zoloft into Breast Milk
Research indicates that Zoloft does pass into breast milk, albeit in small amounts. Studies have shown that approximately 0.5% of the weight-adjusted dose of sertraline can be found in breast milk. This means that while the drug does enter the milk, the concentration is relatively low, which is a reassuring factor for breastfeeding mothers.
Safety for Breastfeeding Infants
The consensus among healthcare professionals is that the benefits of breastfeedingDoes Zoloft Affect Breast Milk?
According to the available research, Zoloft (the brand name for the antidepressant medication sertraline) can pass into breast milk, but the amount is generally considered low and safe for breastfeeding infants.
Key Findings:
– Zoloft is one of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants that is considered relatively safe for use during breastfeeding ,
– Studies have found that only about 0.5% of the maternal dose of Zoloft gets into breast milk
– Trace amounts of Zoloft have been detected in breastfed infants, but no significant adverse effects have been reported ,
– Breastfed infants whose mothers take Zoloft may have a lower chance of experiencing withdrawal symptoms after birth, compared to infants not breastfed
– In most cases, the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh the small risks associated with Zoloft exposure through breast milk
However, it’s important for breastfeeding mothers taking Zoloft to discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider. Factors like the mother’s dosage, the infant’s age and health status, and the severity of the mother’s condition all need to be considered. Close monitoring of the breastfed infant is also recommended,.
Overall, the available evidence suggests that Zoloft can be safely used by breastfeeding mothers in most cases, but open communication with a doctor is crucial to ensure the best outcomes for both the mother and child.

Is Zoloft safe postpartum?

Expert opinion: Sertraline is one of the safest antidepressants during breastfeeding. In most cases, women already taking sertraline should be advised to breastfeed and continue the medication.

Can Zoloft affect breasts?

Nipple Discharge
Zoloft can cause the discharge of breast milk in women who are not lactating, a condition known as galactorrhea. This reaction to Zoloft is driven by prolactin levels that are too high.

Can I donate breastmilk if I take Zoloft?

Community question: “Can I donate if I’m on a low dose antidepressant?” Yes. Make your medications known and it’s up to the mama in need to decide if she wants the milk. personally I would take donor milk with a low dose of anti depressant than formula any day.

Can you take anxiety medication while breastfeeding?

If you and your doctor decide that prescribed medication is the best route for you, there are several options which you can take and continue breastfeeding. They include, in no particular order: SSRI antidepressants e.g. sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine all have anti- anxiety activity.

Can antidepressants decrease milk supply?

Serotonin plays an important role in human breast milk volume homeostasis within the mammary gland during lactation. Previous research has demonstrated that women taking antidepressants have lower rates of breastfeeding intention and initiation, and are more likely to experience delayed secretory activation.

What disqualifies you from donating breastmilk?

You may be disqualified from donating breast milk if you: Have or are being treated for HIV, HTLV (human T-cell leukemia virus), hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. Have a sexual partner who is at risk for HIV, HTLV, hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. Have used recreational drugs within the last year.

What meds should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

  • codeine phosphate.
  • decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
  • some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
  • aspirin for pain relief.

What medications drop milk supply?

For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply. So please call us if you are breastfeeding and need clarification on the safety of a medication or to see if a medication you are taking may be affecting your milk supply while breastfeeding.

How much sertraline goes into breast milk?

Drug Levels
In a pooled analysis of serum levels from published studies and 4 unpublished cases, the authors found that 15 mothers taking an average daily dosage of 83 mg (range 25 to 200 mg) had an average breastmilk sertraline level of 45 mcg/L (range 7 to 207 mcg/L).

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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